The Gift of Giving

Do you end up running store to store trying to figure out what to get your colleagues for the holiday?

Well, I used to be one of those frantic people until I realized that people don’t need more things. They need cookies!
Just kidding..

While many of my colleagues and friends are getting a box full of my famous cookies, there are many other “free” gifts that mean so much more than material things.

Last year, Joe Mechlinkski of EntreQuest challenged the EQ readers to think of new ways to give to the people you spend many of your waking hours with. The one idea that I’m thinking of doesn’t require a single penny. It doesn’t require a whole lot of time. You don’t even have to leave your comfy office chair or couch to make happen.

I happen to think that this is a marvelous idea.

Gift the gift of recommendations. Linkedin has an awesome way to share your sentiments about friends and colleagues through submitting recommendations.

Is there someone who went above and beyond for you this year?

How about someone who really impressed you with his/her talent?

Did you meet someone new this year who changed the way you think about things?

Is there a person whom stands out from the rest of the field?

Do you know someone looking for a job that could use a little encouragement right about now.. or that would benefit from your recommendation? *Ahem*

Start with a list of 10 people. Take the time to think about their contribution in your life this year. Put it into words – it doesn’t have a to be novel, but a few sentences will do.
Be honest.
Highlight what they brought to you over the years.
Be sincere.

On that note.. I need to start on my list… !

Happy Holidays!